5 Activities to Improve Cognition in Seniors

Your cognitive ability is just as important as your physical strength. Cognitive functions are skills of the mind, including decision-making, critical thinking, and memory.

As your body’s “control center,” your mind directly impacts every aspect of your daily life, including how you think, speak, and learn. With 10% of adults ages 65 and older experiencing dementia and another 22% with mild cognitive impairment, seniors must practice cognitive exercises regularly to maintain brain health.

Keep reading to learn more about the importance of brain health and five stimulating activities seniors can do to promote cognitive functioning.

Why Is Brain Health Important?

Brain health encompasses all aspects of your mind's functions, including cognition, motor skills, emotions, and tactile functioning, or how you respond to touch sensations.

As you age, your cognitive skills might become less sharp. This can hinder your ability to retain memories, read, write, and think.

Your mind is like a muscle. To maintain cognition and promote brain health, you must use it every day. You can support brain health by making healthier lifestyle choices, such as:

Consuming a healthy, well-balanced diet
Sleeping eight hours per night
Exercising regularly
Getting regular medical screenings for chronic conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes

Engaging in brain games also promotes cognitive health. Here are five fun cognitive exercises to try.

1. Word and Math Games

Are you a fan of Sudoku or crossword puzzles? Good! These games are entertaining to do while you eat your breakfast or lunch. Additionally, they can also help improve your memory and brain function.

Do the crossword puzzle in your daily or weekly newspaper. You can also pick up a book of Sudoku or crossword puzzle games at your local supermarket or dollar store.

2. Arts and Crafts

It’s time to get crafty! Creative pastimes are fantastic ways to stimulate your brain and keep your hands busy. Creating something beautiful also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Try painting, needlepoint, woodwork, knitting, or any other activity that gets your creative juices flowing.

Don’t know where to start? Contact your local Oklahoma City senior center to see if they offer art classes.

3. Strategy Games

Strategy games, like chess and checkers, can improve concentration, memory, strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving. These games can also boost your IQ!

Invite a friend over for a weekly game of chess or checkers. Or, teach your grandkids how to play.

4. Trivia Games

Hosting a trivia night is a great way to socialize with your friends and family. These games also benefit your brain, improving memory and cognition.

There is a wide range of trivia game categories that suit every preference, including pop culture, science, music, and history. Boost your memory while learning fun new facts!

5. Reading

Not a big fan of games? Enjoy a chapter or two of your favorite book before bedtime. Reading kick starts your imagination, enabling you to conjure up images that reflect the words you’re reading on paper.

Play Games with Companion Caregivers

Do your loved ones live far away? Can’t drive to your art classes? Don’t worry! Visiting Angels of Southwest Oklahoma City is here to help. Our friendly companion caregivers can participate in games and other fun pastimes with you. They can also drive you to your appointments and help you prepare delicious, nutritious meals.